The 2025 Tour de France was not only marked by Tadej Pogačar’s remarkable performance but also by significant technological advancements. Aerodynamics and weight reduction were at the forefront, especially during mountain stages and time trials. Teams have increasingly viewed riders and equipment as a single system, a mindset shift largely attributed to Dan Bigham, a British aerodynamics engineer with Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe.
One major trend was the preference for versatile aero bikes over traditional lightweight climbing bikes. Teams like Visma–Lease a Bike and UAE Team Emirates-XRG opted for aero models, modifying them to approach the UCI’s 6.8kg minimum weight limit. Pogačar’s Colnago Y1Rs, stripped of paint and accessories, exemplified this trend, allowing him to maintain aerodynamic efficiency without the weight penalty.
Aero helmets also gained traction, with teams like EF Education-EasyPost and Visma–Lease a Bike leading the charge. While the exact performance benefits are hard to quantify, wind tunnel testing has validated their effectiveness.
Riders employed various kit hacks to gain competitive edges. Ben Healy, for instance, used a modified skinsuit and aero socks to win stage 6. Pogačar’s use of a branded aero arm sleeve served both as a bandage cover and a potential aerodynamic aid.
The mountain time trial on stage 13 showcased innovative approaches to bike setup, with some riders opting for stripped-down aero bikes and others for lightweight time trial bikes. Teams experimented with wheel choices and bike fits to optimize performance on the challenging course.
Crankarm lengths also saw experimentation, with a notable shift toward shorter options to improve aerodynamics and power output. Riders like Pogačar and Evenepoel chose 165mm cranks, while Vingegaard experimented with even shorter lengths.
Overall, the 2025 Tour de France highlighted how cutting-edge technology and strategic modifications can influence race outcomes, setting new standards for future competitions.
